MANILA (UPDATE) — Devoted fans of the beloved superstar Nora Aunor began arriving at Heritage Park early this morning, eager to pay their respects at her wake.
The public viewing is scheduled to start at 10 a.m., but many supporters were already lining up hours before.
As of 8 a.m., the number of fans continued to grow significantly at the gate near the chapels, where the wake is being held. However, another line of supporters has also formed at a different gate of Heritage Park, demonstrating the widespread love for their iconic actress and singer.
READ: Nora Aunor, superstar of Philippine cinema, passes away
Celia Balaoro, 71, traveled all the way from Cavite and arrived at around 4 a.m.
“Kasi nga ang inaalala namin yung pila nga. Baka mamaya mahaba na ang pila kaya inaano na namin na maaga kami kaya ganun.”
(We were worried about the long lines so we came here very early)
A fan since Aunor’s early days on “Tawag ng Tanghalan,” Balaoro spoke of her enduring admiration.
“Matindi talaga ang kasikatan niya noong araw pa… Maski naman ngayon.”
(Her fame was something else ever since... until today)
She said she was deeply affected by news of Aunor's passing, adding she was brought to tears when she found out and decided she wanted to see the star one last time.
Liz Jalanodni, 61, accompanied her friend Celia.
"Idol siya ng mga lola ko kaya di ko din siya malilimutan… Sana maligaya na siya sa pupuntahan niya."
(My grandmothers idolized her, that's why I won't forget her. I hope she is happy wherever she is going)
Vilma Yanson, 70, from Navotas, arrived with her sister, having left home around 3 a.m. Excited to pay her respects, she had been awake since midnight.
“Kasi alam ko talaga na magiging mahaba ang pila dahil knowing Guy… Marami siyang fans marami nagmamahal sa kanya,” Yanson said, using Aunor’s popular nickname.
(I knew there would be a long line because, knowing Guy, she has a lot of fans. Many people love her)
The growing number of people at both gates of Heritage Park illustrates the profound love and lasting legacy of Nora Aunor, as her fans gather to offer their final respects.
MALACAÑANG EXTENDS CONDOLENCES
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz on Saturday visited Aunor’s wake at the Heritage Park on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
"Inutusan po ako ni Pangulong Marcos para ipaabot ang kaniyang pakikiramay sa pamilya ni Ate Guy," Ruiz said.
“Siya po ay isang malaking kawalan sa industriya ng pelikula pero sa kabila po nito ay mananatili ang kaniyang alaala sa puso at damdamin ng maraming Pilipino. Bunga na rin sa mga pelikula na tumatak sa ating kababayan,” he added.
The public viewing will be until 4 p.m. on Saturday and will resume at 10 a.m. on Sunday. —With a report from Izzy Lee, ABS-CBN News
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